The Story Behind “Saxophone”

The word “saxophone” is a blend of the inventor’s name, Adolphe Sax, and the Greek word “phone,” meaning “voice” or “sound.” Adolphe Sax was a Belgian instrument maker who invented this unique instrument in the 1840s. He aimed to create an instrument that would combine the projection of brass instruments with the agility of woodwinds, and he succeeded with the saxophone.

In this case:

• “Sax” comes from Adolphe Sax, acknowledging his role as the inventor.
• “Phone” derives from the Greek “phōnē,” meaning “voice” or “sound.”